Are you suffering from tooth grinding or TMJ pain? TMJ disorders are complications associated with the temporomandibular joint where the jaw and skull come together. This joint, although minor, can cause chronic pain and symptoms that make performing everyday tasks quite painful or difficult.
Laraway Family Dentistry offers the latest in TMJ therapy to help you eliminate pain and restore dental functionality. Dr. Michael Laraway and Dr. Joanna Laraway can work with you to create a treatment plan that can make it easy to chew and speak again.
What is TMJ, and What Are the Symptoms of This Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint is the small joint located in front of each ear where the lower jaw (mandible) and skull (temporal bone) come together. This joint allows the lower jaw to move up, down, and side-to-side so that we can talk, chew, and yawn.
The TMJ is a complex joint with many moving parts. It has a ball-and-socket design, with the ball being the rounded end of the lower jawbone (mandibular condyle) and the socket being a depression in the temporal bone. The ball and socket are connected by ligaments and muscles, which allow the joint to move smoothly
The TMJ is one of the most used joints in the body and is subjected to extensive wear and tear. Extensive wear can sometimes lead to problems with the joints, muscles, or ligaments. These problems are collectively known as TMJ disorders.
Signs and Symptoms of a TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorders can cause pain in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. The pain can be sharp, dull, or achy. You can feel it in the jaw, temples, ear, or down the side of the face.
Specific symptoms include:
Your jaw ‘pops’ in and out of place.
Your jaw gets stuck in certain positions.
You cannot open your mouth very wide.
You hear grating or popping sounds when chewing your food or speaking.
You experience swelling in one or both sides of your face.
You have pain in your face, neck, or shoulders when speaking, eating, or opening your mouth.
You have chronic headaches or upper shoulder pain.
You frequently experience dizziness.
You have problems with your ears, such as earaches, ringing, or difficulty hearing.
Only your dentist can diagnose a TMJ disorder. If you suspect you have an issue, please schedule an appointment.
Teeth Grinding Can Complicate the TMJ Disorder
Do you suffer from headaches, jaw pain, or neck pain? You may be grinding your teeth at night without realizing it.
Teeth grinding can cause TMJ disorder and can also lead to damage to the teeth and jaw. If you think you may be suffering from teeth grinding, it’s essential to see your dentist or doctor for an evaluation.
How Does Laraway Family Dentistry Treat TMJ Disorder?
Treatment options include nightguards, muscle relaxants, and physical therapy. With proper treatment, you can find relief from your symptoms and protect your teeth from further damage.
Who Can Experience TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorders can occur at any point in life but are most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 years old and are more common in women than men. The symptoms are different from patient to patient, with some reporting pain that comes and goes and others describing symptoms that persist chronically for many years.
TMJ and Teeth Grinding Therapy in The Woodlands, Texas
You don’t have to suffer from TMJ pain any longer. With our help, you can get your life back on track and enjoy all the activities you love again.
If you have experienced or are currently experiencing symptoms of a TMJ disorder, it is crucial to see a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Contact Laraway Family Dentistry to make an appointment and determine which treatment options are right for you .